THE European Parliament adopted last Thursday a majority resolution concerning a report on the progress of Bulgaria's EU accession negotiations. The document notes that all political forces in the country are supportive of Bulgaria's future membership of the EU and NATO.

Bulgaria has continued to implement the political reforms agreed in the 1996 Copenhagen Accord. Bulgaria has made efforts to fulfill its responsibilities under the Europe Agreement and has also implemented an updated national program for adoption of the Acquis Communautaire (the EU legal system).

There are still serious weaknesses in the government administration. The reform of the judiciary, which remains weak, is recognized as a priority, but further efforts and resources are needed. The document says that all provisions that criminalize homosexual relations must be eliminated in order to become compliant with European legal standards.

Corruption remains a problem and undermines confidence in the government administration and the political process. A strategy of zero tolerance is necessary to incorporate new legislative measures in the areas of financial control and transparency.

The European Parliament recognized the effect that regional crises have had on the Bulgarian national economy and noted that the country has achieved additional progress towards a working market economy and a good level of macro-economic stability.

The document urges Bulgaria to continue improving its capacity to survive EU competition pressure in the medium term. It advises that the utmost importance should be given to reforms of the social services, social security, the struggle against poverty and the development of a national employment plan.

The resolution noted that while 98 per cent of land has been returned to its lawful owners, unclear property rights and inadequate control and rules on land tenure are having an adverse effect on the development of agricultural regions.